1、January/February 2024-vol.36 issue 1 Frozen PotatoTech TECHNOLOGY IS MOVING FASTERTHANEVER TECHNOLOGY IS MOVING FASTERTHANEVER Frozen Food in Germany YOUNG CONSUMERS ARE TRENDSETTERS YOUNG CONSUMERS ARE TRENDSETTERS Nutrition&Ingredients TO CHANGE IS TO IMPROVE TO CHANGE IS TO IMPROVEContentJANUARY-

2、FEBRUARY 2024 VOLUME 36 I SSUE 1FEATURES 10 BAKERY&PASTRY The Never-ending Appeal of Frozen Bakery Products 16 BI O&ORGANI C PRODUCTS Heal thier Choices:Navigating the New Trends on the Food Market 20 FROZEN POTATO TECHNOLOGY Technol ogy is Moving Faster than Ever 28 FREEZI NG TECHNOLOGY The Signifi

3、cance of Freezing Tech in Modern Food Manufacturing 32 FROZEN FOOD I N GERMANY-I NTERVI EW“Young Consumers are Trendsetters,Driving Devel opments Towards Sustainabl e Nutrition”34 PROCESS&PACKAGI NG TECHNOLOGY The Rol e of Packaging in Food Safety 38 TRANSPORT&LOGI STI CS Col d Chain:Market Trends a

4、nd Opportunities 40 NUTRI TI ON&I NGREDI ENTS To Change Is to ImproveREGULARS 04 COMMENT 35 Years of Frozen Food Europe 06 NEWS News from Around the Worl d 44 FAI R PREVI EW-ANUGA FOODTEC 2024“Anuga FoodTec Is a Showcase of Pioneering Technol ogy”46 FAI R PREVI EW-I NTERNORGA 2024 The Cul inary Worl

5、 d Convenes Again at Hamburg 48 PRODUCT UPDATES Latest Innovations Within the I03January/February 20240435 YEARS OF FROZEN FOOD EUROPEEdi tor i n Chi ef:BOGDAN ANGHELUTA bogdan.anghel utatrade.media Adverti si ng Sales Manager:ALEXANDRU JINGA al Producti on Manager:MARIAN CILIBEANU productiontrade.m

6、edia Ci rculati on Manager:SIMONA ARDELEANU simona.ardel eanutrade.media Worldwi de contri butors:EUROMONITOR INTERNATIONAL LEATHERHEAD FOOD RESEARCH MINTEL GROUP LTD JONATHAN THOMAS MARKETS AND MARKETS IGD DIETER MAILNDER (Germany)ANN MARIE FOLEY (I reland)Pri nti ng:Sothis Publi shed by:Trade Medi

7、a Solutions Executi ve Di rector:RALUCA MIHAELA CANESCU ral uca.canescutrade.media Managi ng Di rector:NICOLETA MARASESCU nicol eta.marasescutrade.media Publi shi ng offi ce:1 G-ral.David Praporgescu St.,2nd floor,sector 2,Bucharest,Romani a Tel./fax:+40 21 315 90 31 E-mai l:officemediatrade.ro Web:

8、 Di stri buti on:Frozen Food Europe i s a bi-monthly controlled ci rculati on magazi ne,mai led to maj or frozen food buyers who operate i n the retai l,foodservi ce,cateri ng and pri vate label areas,and also maj or further processi ng buyers and i nsti tuti onal buyers around Europe.No part of thi

9、 s publi cati on may be reproduced or transmi tted i n any form or by any means,electroni c or mechani cal,i ncludi ng photocopy,recordi ng or any i nformati on,storage or retri eval system,wi thout the publi shers wri tten permi ssi on.ISSN 1473-3382CommentYes,you read that right:Frozen Food Europe

10、 turns 35 this year,and were glad to have been able to reflect on all the success that the industry has experienced during these last decades.In the past 35 years,frozen food consumption has undergone significant changes in Europe and worldwide.Initially,frozen food was limited to vegetables and fru

11、its,but now there is a wider range of frozen products available,including entire meals-from appetizers to desserts.This diversification is evident in the expanding selection of frozen ready-to-eat meals,pizzas,and gourmet options,providing consumers with a convenient alternative to traditional cooki

12、ng.In recent years,frozen food has become a viable and sometimes preferred option due to improved freezing technologies and rigorous quality standards,eliminating the perception that it is a compromise on quality.For instance,in Germany,one of Europes largest and most dynamic markets,the per capita

13、consumption of frozen food increased from 39.3 kilograms per year to 44.8 kilograms between 2009 and 2020.Advancements in freezing technology have played a crucial role in this evolution,ensuring that frozen foods retain their nutritional value and quality.The introduction of quick-freezing techniqu

14、es,such as cryogenic freezing,has helped preserve the texture and flavor of food,addressing concerns about potential degradation during the freezing process.The European Federation of Food Science and Technology(EFFoST)recognizes how these technological advancements have contributed to the growth of

15、 the frozen food sector by improving the overall consumer experience.The global trend towards sustainability and food waste reduction has also influenced the evolution of frozen food consumption.The ability to store food for longer periods in a frozen state has become a strategic tool in minimizing

16、food spoilage.The European Commissions Circular Economy Action Plan acknowledges the role of frozen food in reducing food waste by extending the shelf life of perishable items.Looking forward,we expect frozen food to come even closer to consumers as trends such as plant-based or free-from become sta

17、ndards of the industry.So,heres to many more years and many more issues dedicated to the success of the industry!nBy Bogdan Angheluta,Edi tor i n Chi ef Looking forward,we expect frozen food to come even cl oser to consumers as trends such as pl ant-based or free-from become standards of the industr

18、y.”January/February 202406NewsI TALYLess than two years since the MULTIVAC Groups new production facility in India has begun its construction,the unit will become active.The state-of-the-art building complex for Sales and Production boasts a 10,000 square meter floor area and was made possible by an

19、 expenditure of approximately nine million euros.Firstly,the site will employ about sixty people.The objective is to maximize supply through regional closeness and faster delivery times to consumers in Bangladesh,Sri Lanka,and India.The second quarter of 2024 will see the opening of the new factory.

20、Initially,MULTIVAC will begin manufacturing compact thermoforming packaging machines and small fully automatic tray sealers in a 5,000 square meter production facility.Beginning in 2025,mold sets and dies for packing machinery will also be produced.Food Union Europe,a prominent supplier of ice cream

21、 and other frozen confections to customers in six European nations,has announced the appointment of Soren Lauridsen as executive chairman of the company.This newly established Executive Chairman position reflects Food Union Europes commitment to strategic leadership and growth.Soren Lauridsens backg

22、round includes roles in branding,marketing,and sales within the FMCG industry.EUROPEEUROPEKoelnmesse and Fiere di Parma have announced the expansion of their partnership.Having successfully collaborated in the Food-Tec industry for the past 8 years,the two organizations are now extending their coope

23、ration to the Food&Beverage sector.Starting in 2024,TuttoFood will be supported by Koelnmesse,the organizer behind globally renowned food fairs such as Anuga and ISM.With its extensive global sales network and international expertise,Koelnmesse,in collaboration with Fiere di Parma,aims to reinforce

24、the already established position of TuttoFood.As of today,therefore,the Agri-Food companies market benefits from a single trade fair platform that has in its portfolio Anuga-Cologne,the worlds leading event,Cibus-Parma,the biggest and iconic exhibition of Made in Italy food,and TuttoFood-Milan,which

25、 will host the trends of the global Food&Beverage industry.The successful culmination of this venture is attributed to the shared vision of all shareholders and directors of Fiere di Parma and Koelnmesse.Their unwavering commitment to the growth of their respective fairs in their regions has made th

26、is systematic operation possible.The Parma-Cologne-Milan alliance not only solidifies the leadership of these cities in the Food&Beverage fair sector but also underscores Europes pivotal role in shaping a conscious and sustainable global food model.“Were excited to announce the extension of our part

27、nership with Fiere di Parma.The further expansion of our involvement in the food and beverage sector is an important milestone for us.Italy,which has been a crucial market for us for years,presents captivating possibilities,”said Gerald Bse,CEO of Koelnmesse.“The dynamic synergy between Cibus,TuttoF

28、ood,and Koelnmesses proficiency,as demonstrated in Anuga and ISM,fuels our anticipation of shaping global trends.This collaboration not only bolsters our market presence but also underscores Europes central role in championing a sustainable food model on the global stage.”GLOBALWESTFALI A FRUI T CEL

29、EBRATES 75 YEARSWestfalia Fruit,the leading global avocado supplier celebrates its 75th anniversary this year.From its roots in South Africa,Westfalia has an established global presence across 17 countries and 5 continents,uniquely working in partnership with local communities and investing in a sus

30、tainable future.Looking ahead,Westfalia Fruit has capped off an exciting year of growth in India and China,two of the fastest growing avocado markets in the world,as well as Japan.ASI APOLARIS MEETINGS is launching one of the major European events in IQF fruits on the April 10 and 11,2024 in Stresa,

31、Italy.It is the opportunity to meet the major actors of the business in a wonderful location.It is a famous event that focuses on IQF fruits business only with a selective list of participants from all over the world.The suppliers organize their meetings over 2 days with European buyers from the ind

32、ustry,retail,or distribution sectors.For its 10th anniversary,POLARIS chose a wonderful location on Lake Maggiore to combine business with pleasure.SOREN LAURI DSEN NAMED EXECUTI VE CHAI RMAN OF FOOD UNI ON EUROPEMULTI VAC GROUP OPENS NEW FACI LI TYNEW POLARI S EVENT TO TAKE PLACE I N I TALYKOELNMES

33、SE,FI ERE DI PARMA JOIN FORCES TO INCREASE TUTTOFOODS INTERNATIONAL PRESENCEUSThe first-ever comprehensive,data-driven report from Conagra Brands,Future of Frozen Food 2024,looked at how the USD78bn United States frozen food market may change in 2024.Trends included flavors inspired by around the wo

34、rld,a rise in breakfast foods,and more.Future of Frozen Food 2024 identified five trends in the U.S.frozen food market by utilizing the demand science expertise of Conagra Brands,extensive social media trend predictors from Black Swan Data,robust sales data from NielsenIQ,and in-home consumption beh

35、aviors from Circanas National Eating Trends.The worlds largest frozen food market is by far located in the United States.Eight out of ten Americans prefer frozen food at least once a week,and the majority eat it four times a week on average.Nearly half of Americans now own at least one secondary fre

36、ezer,and over half always keep frozen food on hand,particularly veggies.According to the latest survey,the top three categories in terms of dollar share are seafood,sweets,and prepared foods(which include meals,handhelds,and appetizers).The study also investigated the tastes and eating patterns of d

37、ifferent generations of frozen food,including Gen Z,Millennials,Boomers,Gen X,“empty nesters,”and older couples.“The frozen food industry,which began with our own Clarence Birdseye over a century ago,will continue to evolve with product innovation,flavor experimentation and changes to how and when p

38、eople want to enjoy frozen food,”said Bob Nolan,senior vice president of demand science at Conagra Brands.“Unlike conventional consumer surveys or online polls,we leveraged our Demand Science team to dive deep into data and other insights,unearthing tastes and experiences for the year ahead.”CONAGRA

39、 EXPLORES THE FUTURE OF FROZEN FOODS IN NEW STUDYThe international meat and protein industry will once again meet at IFFA Technology for Meat and Alternative Proteins from May 3 to 8,2025 in Frankfurt am Main.Under the motto“Rethinking Meat and Proteins”,IFFA 2025 will be launched with many innovati

40、ons and an optimized exhibition concept.For the first time,there will be a dedicated“New Proteins”product area.The IFFA concept has been overhauled and refined to be fit for the future.Johannes Schmid-Wiedersheim,director of IFFA,explains:“Over the past few months,we have developed many new ideas to

41、gether with our industry partners.The most important key points relate to an adapted exhibition concept and a separate exhibition area for the topic of New Proteins.The motto of IFFA 2025 is Rethinking Meat and Proteins and that is exactly the vision to work together to make food production smarter

42、and more sustainable.”Speciality Food&Drinks Asia,Speciality Coffee&Tea Asia,and Food2Go are F&B titles that IEG Asia Pte Ltd recently bought from Montgomery Asia.This calculated action strengthens IEG Asias resolve to improve the food and beverage environment in Singapore and the ASEAN region.This

43、merger represents a turning point for the food and beverage industry since the combined events offer a highly specialized trade show that can meet the demands of both industry heavyweights and up-and-coming businesses,all under one roof.I TALYGERMANYI EG ASI A ACQUI RES MONTGOMERY ASI A F&B EVENTSEU

44、ROPENORTH AMERI CAUS FROZEN FRUI TS MARKET TO GROW BY 3.7%The US frozen fruits market is a dynamic sector experiencing robust growth driven by shifting consumer preferences towards convenience and health-conscious choices.Frozen fruits,once relegated to the periphery of grocery shopping,have become

45、staples in American households.In 2023,the US frozen fruits market was valued at USD6.19bn.Projected to experience a Compound Annual Growth Rate(CAGR)of 3.7%during the forecast period(2023 to 2033),sales of frozen fruits in the United States are poised for consistent growth as per a report published

46、 by Persistence Market Research.M.Arabatzis SA received an international award for Chryssi Zymi brand.The favorite Triangles with Feta P.O.P.and Katiki Domokou of Chryssi Zymi were awarded with the 3-star Superior Taste Award by the Bruxelles International Taste Institute.M.Arabatzis SA is committed

47、 to continue with the same zeal and passion to create unique,innovative products of high quality and nutritional value and spread the Greek nutritional tradition all over the world.M.ARABATZI S RECEI VES AN I MPORTANT AWARDI FFA 2025 REVEALS 2025 MOTTO:“RETHI NKI NG MEAT AND PROTEI NS”07January/Febr

48、uary 202408NewsI TALYKellanova,formerly known as Kellogg Company,a global snacks-led manufacturer,has announced that it is on track to reach its goal of creating a climate-positive future,including achieving 100%renewable electricity in global Kellanova-owned manufacturing facilities by the end of 2

49、030.Globally,by the end of 2030 Kellanova aims to achieve 100%renewable electricity across owned manufacturing plants through a variety of programs,on-site,VPPAs and renewable energy certificates(RECs)and has made significant progress to that end:in Europe,Kellanovas manufacturing facilities have re

50、cently achieved 100%renewable electricity to address its operations through the purchase of RECs.Kellanovas European manufacturing facilities have been purchasing RECs since 2016.McCain Foods,producer of one in four of the worlds French fries has released its annual Global Sustainability Report,whic

51、h highlights the brands progress toward its sustainability goals until 2023.By the end of the decade,100%of McCains potato acreage will be using regenerative agricul-ture practices.The brand also revealed that 28%of farmers are progressing up the framework toward a more comprehensive adoption of reg

52、enerative practices,and that over 50%of the farmers overseeing McCains global potato acreage have already integrated the practices.GLOBALAUSTRALI AARYZTA will begin the construction and commissioning of a new bakery in Perth in Western Australia.The total investment is estimated to be EUR40m.The pro

53、ject will take two years to complete once construction starts.This capital investment will be accommodated with the existing capex guidance given in the midterm plan,3.5-4%of revenue,to ensure that all the targets outlined in the midterm plan are delivered.The new facility will serve Quick Service R

54、estaurants,Food Service and Retail customers from its site located in Peel Business Park,which is 60km from Perth CBD.ARYZTA will generate 80 additional direct employees and over 500 indirect employment opportunities in the Perth area.“Australia is an attractive growth market for bakery products and

55、 this expansion in Perth will allow ARYZTA to produce fresh and frozen products as opposed to shipping frozen only over long distances from our plants in eastern Australia,”said ARYZTA AG Chair and Interim CEO,Urs Jordi.This new state of the art bakery is the first major bakery investment in Western

56、 Australia in the past 20 years.Population growth and continuing strong growth for bakeries means that existing bakery capacity is near full utilization.This development will significantly enhance ARYZTAs ESG credentials in Australia by removing an estimated 1.7 million food miles currently involved

57、 in transporting bakery items to customers in Western Australia from ARYZTAs existing two facilities in New South Wales and Victoria.The investment will lower ARYZTA local carbon footprint by over 700 tons of CO2 annually while the availability of high quality local raw materials for bakery such as

58、flour,dairy and sugar in Australia will also minimize food miles and enhance sustainability further.In addition,the new facility will be largely powered by a local renewable microgrid which sources its energy from a solar and battery storage system.GLOBALFROZEN SEAFOOD MARKET TO REACH USD137.2BNThe

59、global frozen seafood market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate(CAGR)of 5.3%from 2023 to 2032,from its estimated USD82bn in 2022 to USD137bn by 2032,according to a recent analysis by Allied Market Research.The quick shift in consumer preferences and lifestyle has played a significa

60、nt role in raising awareness of the health advantages of seafood.The frozen seafood market accounted for over one-third of the worlds revenue in 2022 and is predicted to continue leading the way for the duration of the forecast period.NORTH AMERI CAAs SIGEP 2024 came to an end in Rimini,the figures

61、show that the fair had visitors from over 160 countries,1,200 exhibiting brands from 35 nations,and over 500 buyers from 84 nations for 5,200 business meetings.Three international competitions with 25 participating countries were held:Gelato World Cup,Junior Pastry World Cup and European Gelato Chal

62、lenge;meanwhile,3,250 students from 70 hotel and catering schools and professional institutes attended the event.MCCAI N FOODS-2023 SUSTAI NABI LI TY REPORTKELLANOVA ON TRACK TO ACHI EVE RENEWABLE ELECTRI CI TY TARGETARYZTA ANNOUNCES NEW AUSTRALIAN BAKERY INVESTMENTSI GEP 2024 SEES GREAT RESULTSBy B

63、ogdan Angheluta Bakery&PastryJanuary/February 202410A recent study by Global Market Insights Inc has projected that the frozen bakery market will reach a value of USD81bn by 2032.The market is expected to be driven by increasing consumer interest in vegan and plant-based diets,which has led to signi

64、ficant research and development efforts and the introduction of vegan bakery items.Furthermore,the growing preference for frozen foods among retailers,restaurants,and caterers seeking to minimize waste and adapt to shifting consumer preferences while offering a variety of treats is also anticipated

65、to fuel market growth.In Europe,the frozen bakery market is expected to reach USD29bn by 2032,with countries like Germany boasting approximately 10,000 bakeries and an estimated annual household consumption of 56 kilograms of bread and baked goods.Efforts by various companies to strengthen their pos

66、ition in the expanding bakery sector are expected to further boost market revenue.The savory snacks segment within the frozen bakery market is expected to surpass USD10.5bn by 2032,driven by increased consumption of biscuits,pizzas,frozen bread,and savory pastries.Additionally,the growing consumer p

67、reference for plant-based,vegan,and vegetarian products is fostering product innovations,fueling segment growth.The ready-to-bake segment of the frozen bakery market is anticipated to exceed USD56.5bn by 2032,driven by rising demand from cafeterias and restaurants aiming to minimize daily resupply n

68、eeds and reduce preparation time and costs without compromising food quality.Furthermore,consumers are increasingly turning to quick,convenient options provided by readily available ready-to-eat bakery products,contributing to industry expansion.The hotels,restaurants,and catering segment is expecte

69、d to grow at a compound annual growth rate of over 6%between 2023 and 2032.Frozen doughs are gaining popularity among bakers and hoteliers for their ability to streamline preparation processes and time management,facilitating service provision and daily operations organization.Moreover,government in

70、itiatives to promote tourism are anticipated to drive segment advancement by fostering the establishment of more restaurants and hotels.HYPOALLERGENI C AND GLUTEN-FREE BAKERY PRODUCTS:MORE THAN JUST A TREND The bakery industry is witnessing a rise in demand for healthier alternatives.Consumers are i

71、ncreasingly conscious of their well-being and are seeking bakery products that cater to specific dietary needs while also being delicious.According to a study by Global Market Insights,there is a growing inclination towards hypoallergenic and gluten-free baking products.Hypoallergenic bakery product

72、s are becoming increasingly popular as they cater to consumers with food sensitivities and allergies.These products are carefully crafted to exclude common allergens,ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for individuals with dietary restrictions.The market has responded to this demand by offering

73、 an array of hypoallergenic options,from cookies to breads,allowing consumers to indulge without compromising their Frozen bakery products have become increasingl y popul ar among consumers and foodservice establ ishments due to their abil ity to minimize waste,extend shel f l ife,and maintain produ

74、ct qual ity.This has contributed to the continued growth of the market.THE NEVER-ENDI NG APPEAL OF FROZEN BAKERY PRODUCTS health.Gluten-free products have also become a cornerstone of the health-conscious consumers diet.With conditions like celiac disease and gluten sensitivity on the rise,there is

75、an increasing need for alternatives that dont sacrifice taste or texture.The gluten-free bakery market has risen to the occasion,presenting a diverse range of options that are not only palatable but also chemical-free.Urbanization and the fast pace of modern life play a pivotal role in shaping consu

76、mer choices.The demand for convenient,on-the-go snacks and meals has spurred innovations in the bakery sector.Hypoallergenic and gluten-free bakery products align with this trend,offering consumers the convenience they crave without compromising on health.As the market continues to grow,bakeries and

77、 food manufacturers are investing in research and development to create cutting-edge hypoallergenic and gluten-free products.From incorporating alternative flours like almonds and coconut to experimenting with ancient grains,industry is embracing innovation to meet the evolving demands of health-con

78、scious consumers.The surge in demand for hypoallergenic and gluten-free bakery products is a testament to consumers commitment to wellness.As the industry continues to innovate and cater to diverse dietary needs,the future of baking looks promising,with a delicious array of options that prioritize b

79、oth taste and health.Whether driven by health concerns or lifestyle choices,consumers can look forward to a bountiful selection of baked goods that align with their individual preferences and contribute to a healthier,tastier future.BETTER FI GURES FOR SWEET PRODUCTS At the end of last year,the Sige

80、p Christmas 2023 Observatory recorded a recovery in dolce bakery consumption,which,with 3.3 billion products served(+1.4%compared to 2022),is almost at pre-pandemic levels.This is the trend that emerges in the CREST data by Circana leader in consumer behavior analysis and interpretation.Circanas fig

81、ures show a positive 2023 for“out of home”:up until September the latest data available in the study conducted on a quarterly basis spending is expected to be around EUR50.7bn with an average of EUR4.56 per purchase;a growth of 11.9%compared to the same period last year.Also positive are the 11.1 bi

82、llion“visits”,or rather,the number of people entering and leaving food-related businesses,including delivery,with an increase of 5.5%.“Out of home consumption in Italy is growing compared to last year,even if growth rates are slowing,”said Matteo Figura,head of Foodservice for Circana Italia.“Attend

83、ances are stabilizing at pre-pandemic levels,while in regard to the amounts spent,it should be remembered that growth is also due 81 bn USD is the projected val ue of the frozen bakery market in 2032.#January/February 202412to the general rise in prices.”The consumption of dolce bakery products fits

84、 into this context.“The recovery in recent years is evident:we are currently at 3.3 billion products,and it wont be long before we return to the 3.5 billion of 2019.A dolce bakery product is acquired in 25.3%of out of home visits,”concludes Figura.“This propensity to consume has been stable over the

85、 years:in order to close the gap with 2019 levels,we need to recover the visits that less mobility outside the home has caused,especially on occasions such as breakfast that drive the dolce bakery sector.”YOUNGER CONSUMERS DRI VE THE MARKET Tate&Lyles 2023 consumer insights report reveals significan

86、t growth opportunities in the bakery sector,with almost half of young people(45%)buying baked goods daily as they see them as an important part of their diet.Meanwhile,a third of consumers aged 34 and above are also doing the same.These are just some of the findings and recommendations in Tate&Lyles

87、 Bakery Digest:Whats driving growth in the European bakery market,which analyses consumers consumption and purchasing behaviors across a wide range of bakery products,including bread,cereals,cakes,biscuits,pastries,and bars.Experts at Tate&Lyle,a world leader in ingredient solutions for healthier fo

88、od and beverages,are calling on manufacturers to recognize the importance of positive nutrition claims in winning over shoppers.The research findings show that while traditional health considerations like sugar and calorie content remain important to consumers,a staggering 67%of consumers ranked add

89、itional nutritional benefits as a priority,and two-thirds of consumers are likely to choose bakery products with added fiber claims,presenting an opportunity for manufacturers and their customers to attract and retain shoppers.“Were noticing that there is a lot more focus on positive nutrition claim

90、s.In addition to claims like reduced fat and reduced calories,consumers are increasingly seeking products that are high in fiber or high in protein,”says Lin Peterse,Tate&Lyles category development manager for Bakery in Europe.”As a result,protein bars or high fiber snacks,which used to be considere

91、d performance products,are becoming more mainstream,and consumers are also starting to look for fiber and protein claims on products like cakes and biscuits.”In addition to the impact of High Fat,Salt,and Sugar(HFSS)display regulations in the UK,the report also explores the impact of other regulator

92、y changes like Nutri-Score in certain European countries on buying habits.For example,two-thirds(65%)of consumers said they would like manufacturers to reformulate the recipes of their favorite bakery products so they can still have the convenience of buying them at aisle ends or by checkouts.“It me

93、ans manufacturers may need to review some of their formulations to attract new consumers and keep existing ones,”Lin Peterse added.n56 kil ograms of bread and baked goods are consumed annual l y in each German househol d.#65%of UK consumers want manufacturers to reformul ate the recipes of bakery pr

94、oducts so they can stil l have the convenience of buying them at aisl e ends.#Over the years,agriculture and food industries have been using industrial techniques and phytosanitary products.However,the trend is changing,and they are slowly but surely turning towards organic food production.Although

95、most of the cultivated land is not yet organically certified,the organic market is growing at a fast pace,according to SIAL.In 2022,only 2%of the worldwide agricultural area,equivalent to 76 million hectares,was certified organic or in the process of converting to organic.Consumers worldwide are inc

96、reasingly adopting organic products due to their health and environmental benefits.The global organic market grew by 10%in value between 2021 and 2022,and forecasts suggest a 75%rise by 2026.The organic market is relatively new and growing rapidly,with many innovations in new products and manufactur

97、ing processes.In France,one in five new food products was organic in 2022,making it the country with the largest quantity of new organic products in the world.Germany and Spain were second and third in the ranking,respectively,with 20%and 19%of new food products being organic.These innovations often

98、 led to new trends in the food market,such as gluten-free,pesticide-free,vegan,locally sourced,non-meat proteins and“blend it yourself”January/February 202414By Bogdan Angheluta Bi o&Organi c ProductsThere has recentl y been a surge in demand for bio and organic food products,which are produced with

99、out the use of synthetic chemical s,genetical l y modified organisms(GMOs),or artificial additives.This trend has prompted extensive innovation within the food industry,l eading to the devel opment of a diverse range of organic and bio-certified products,incl uding fruits,vegetabl es,grains,dairy pr

100、oducts,meat,and packaged foods.HEALTHI ER CHOI CES:NAVIGATING THE NEW TRENDS ON THE FOOD MARKET 2%of the worl dwide agricul tural area was certified organic or in the process of converting to organic(2022).#products like healthy smoothies and detox juices.North America and Europe accounted for 90%of

101、 organic consumption,with the US topping the list of the biggest organic consumers.Germany,France,China,Canada,Italy,and Switzerland were also significant markets.Switzerland,Denmark,and Luxembourg were the top three countries in per capita consumption of organic products.The Asian market,mainly Chi

102、na,is growing at a fair pace,with 15%growth in 2022.In Latin America,organic remains marginal,but it is growing in Brazil,Bolivia,Argentina,and Uruguay.Most organic products in Africa are earmarked for export,but the number of organic food producers has increased significantly.Alongside organic prod

103、ucts,well-being focused products are also developing strongly,such as health food,dietary supplements,superfoods,gluten-free,and lactose-free products.According to SIAL,France is one of the worlds leading consumers of organic products,with an organic market worth EUR13bn in 2022 and 11%of agricultur

104、al land dedicated to organic farming.Although France remains Europes second-biggest consumer,the organic market has been declining since the pandemic.In 2022,there was a 5.1%decline in French household consumption of organic products,excluding inflation.This downward trend is specific to France and

105、can be explained by a general decline in home-based household food consumption.Inflation on food products,which stood at 6.8%in 2022,is putting a strain on French peoples purchasing power,forcing them to spend more and consume less.However,it is worth noting that organic products are less affected b

106、y inflation,with only a 4%increase in 2022.In terms of the breakdown of organic product purchases in France in 2021,sweet grocery products accounted for 16.5%of purchases,followed by fruit and vegetables at 15.9%,and dairy products and eggs/savory grocery products at 14.8%.I S I T PLANT-BASED OR I S

107、 I T VEGAN?Plant-based and vegan-labeled foods have become increasingly popular in various global markets.Consumers now have more convenient access to these products than ever before.However,as the range of products catering to diets free of animal-based foods expands,the question of how best to lab

108、el them for maximum appeal remains.According to Euromonitor,while the term vegan has been around for a while,plant-based has gained popularity more recently.Although vegans are more inclined to consume plant-based meat or dairy alternatives,its important to note that they represent a significantly s

109、maller demographic compared to those seeking to reduce their meat or dairy intake.Only 4.6%of individuals globally identify as vegan.When we analyzed responses from Euromonitor Internationals Voice of the Consumer:Health and Nutrition survey,we found that 64.1%of vegans consume plant-based dairy alt

110、ernatives weekly or more frequently,equating to 2.9%of consumers,while 35.8%consume plant-based meat alternatives,amounting to 1.7%of consumers.On the other hand,when we applied the same analysis to individuals attempting to limit meat or dairy consumption,21.3%of meat limiters and 49.5%of dairy lim

111、iters consume plant-based alternatives regularly.Its worth noting that those limiting their meat intake represent the largest segment of consumers showing interest in plant-based alternatives,with this group steadily increasing in size over recent years.This trend highlights the dynamic nature of th

112、e food and nutrition landscape,where innovative new product developments continue to emerge,even as larger industry players adjust their growth expectations in response to changing consumer preferences,particularly in the wake of the pandemic.GLOBALDATA:SUSTAI NABLE NUTRI TI ON FUSES TRADI TI ON WI

113、TH I NNOVATI ON FOR ENVI RONMENTAL AND HEALTH BENEFI TS The field of sustainable nutrition is redefining the global food landscape by merging traditional dietary practices with innovative technologies.This evolution,driven by the urgent need for environmental sustainability and enhanced health benef

114、its,is spotlighting alternative food sources and advanced production methods.This transformative trend is not just a fleeting movement but a crucial pivot towards a more sustainable future,according to GlobalData,a leading data and analytics company.We are witnessing a shift in our approach to food

115、and health by embracing alternative,sustainable food sources such as edible insects and groundbreaking technologies like 3D food printing,according to Kiran Raj,practice head of Disruptive Tech at GlobalData.The growth in plant-based proteins and nutrient-rich,microencapsulated foods is not just a r

116、esponse to consumer health consciousness but also a significant step towards addressing the global challenges of resource management and dietary sustainability.These developments reflect a deepening understanding of the interconnectedness of our dietary choices,health,and the environment to set a ne

117、w standard for what it means to eat healthy and sustainably.GlobalDatas FutureTech Series report,Green bites:Key Disruptive Forces in Sustainable Nutrition,highlights more than 35 disruptive forces in consumer as emerging,accelerating,and maturing innovation areas based on their rate of growth in in

118、novation.Edible insects,with their high protein content and minimal ecological footprint,are breaking cultural barriers and gaining acceptance as a viable food source.In September 2022,for instance,Denmark-based Essentia launched an edible cricket protein powder aiming at all varieties of protein-en

119、riched foods,snacks,and supplements.In the world of plant-based alternatives,the focus is on creating products that mimic traditional animal-based foods,meeting consumer demands for taste and texture while ensuring environmental stewardship,adds Kiran Raj.MAJOR I NVESTMENTS I N ALTERNATI VE PROTEI N

120、S Pulmuone,a South Korean plant-based food manufacturer,and cell-based startup Simple Planet announced a partnership in March 2023 to develop and commercialize hybrid meat products using both plant-based ingredients and cultivated meat.Givaudan,a Swiss multinational manufacturer of flavors,fragrance

121、s,and active cosmetic ingredients,has expanded the Protein Hub at its flagship Zurich Innovation Centre in Kemptthal,in July 2023 to support the growth of dairy alternatives.Moreover,3D printing of food is revolutionizing how we think about food production,enabling customization and efficiency.In Oc

122、tober 2023,South Korea-based CJ Foods,and T&R Biofab joined forces to develop alternative meat using 3D bioprinting technology.Meanwhile,innovations in microencapsulated proteins are enhancing nutrition and dietary options.For instance,Ireland-based Anabio Technologies secured a patent that demonstr

123、ates encapsulating creatine in a whey protein matrix,using a process involving hydrolyzed whey protein and carboxylic esters.By embracing such innovative food solutions,we are not only addressing immediate dietary needs but are also laying the foundation for a resilient,health-focused,and environmen

124、tally conscious future.However,the journey towards the widespread adoption of sustainable nutrition faces hurdles such as cultural resistance,economic constraints,and the challenge of scaling up related food 13 bn EUR was the val ue of the organic market in France in 2022.#January/February 17product

125、ion methods,concludes Kiran Raj.But what about alternative products that actually imitate globally consumed proteins,such as red meat?ALEPH FARMS RECEI VES WORLDS FI RST REGULATORY APPROVAL FOR CULTI VATED BEEF Aleph Farms,an Israeli-based food startup,has achieved a significant breakthrough in the

126、world of meat production.They have managed to create beef steaks without having to raise and slaughter cattle.This is a huge milestone as it is the first time that non-chicken meat has been cultivated using this method.The company has received regulatory approval from Israels Ministry of Health,whic

127、h marks a major step forward in making this type of meat available in the market.Aleph Farms uses a ground-breaking approach to create beef steaks by cultivating cattle cells in a controlled environment.This method is more environmentally friendly than traditional farming practices,which can have a

128、negative impact on our planet.In addition,many countries depend on beef imports,which can be costly and unsustainable.By producing beef using this innovative technique,Aleph Farms hopes to offer a more sustainable and cost-effective solution.Their aim is to make this type of meat more widely availab

129、le by making it more affordable,thus reducing the environmental impact of traditional farming practices.The companys vision is to become a leader in the field of cellular agriculture,which has the potential to revolutionize the way we produce and consume food.“The entire Aleph team has united in str

130、ength and determination to deliver no matter what during these difficult times in Israel.We are excited to carry this resilience forward in the form of innovation in agriculture and food security.Such innovation has been at the heart of Israels vision from the countrys very beginning,from early kibb

131、utz practices to modern drip irrigation,”said Didier Toubia,CEO and co-founder of Aleph Farms.“With its global leadership in cellular agriculture,Israel continues to push for greater regional integration and economic collaboration,which will be crucial for stabilizing the region.We believe that addr

132、essing joint challenges like food security is the best way to ensure the prosperity of the Middle East and other parts of the world that rely heavily on massive food imports,especially in Asia.On behalf of our entire team,I would like to thank the Ministry of Health,the Israel Innovation Authority,a

133、nd all the other involved government agencies for their commitment to advance the first cultivated beef product in the world.Now more than ever,Aleph Farms remains committed to making the world a better place.”To create a sustainable and resilient food system,its important to form partnerships betwe

134、en different groups,and Israel is leading the way in this effort.In April 2022,the Israeli government gave USD18m in grants to a group of private companies and research institutions,including Aleph Farms,to help them create meat without raising animals.This is just one example of many partnerships h

135、appening around the world,with organizations like the United Nations and the World Economic Forum offering support to innovators who are working to make the food supply safer and more environmentally friendly.The inaugural Aleph Cut to be presented to diners in Israel,known as the cultivated Petit S

136、teak,is crafted from unaltered,non-immortalized cells sourced from a premium Black Angus cow named Lucy,along with a plant protein matrix derived from soy and wheat.With the exclusion of starter cells originating from one of Lucys fertilized eggs,the cultivation process and the resulting product are

137、 entirely devoid of animal-derived components,such as fetal bovine serum.Furthermore,antibiotics are neither utilized during production nor detected in the final product.Employing a meticulously controlled and traceable production protocol,including an aseptic environment,ensures heightened transpar

138、ency and significantly mitigates the risk of contamination.n35.8%of vegans consume pl ant-based meat al ternatives(Europe,2023).#How does a company like Urschel,one of the largest global manufacturers of equipment for this market,integrate developing technologies such as AI into its product developm

139、ent?Well,it does so in several ways.“Technology is implemented in the production methods to determine the best practices to manufacture Urschel food cutting machinery.Urschel will purchase or build such technology in-house to ensure quality standards are strictly maintained,”according to Alan Major,

140、chief sales officer at Urschel.“As a 100%employee-owned company with engineers,foundries,pattern makers,and development under one roof,the Urschel team constantly embraces challenges to discover better ways of manufacturing.To foster technology,Urschel U.S.A.recently completed an addition of 115,000

141、 s.f.(10,700 m2)dedicated to advancing manufacturing.The facility now stands at over 525,000 s.f.(49,000 m2)with a large percentage of 80%of the space designated exclusively to manufacturing.”Inventive technology is part of the companys DNA beginning with founder William Urschel,who along with inven

142、ting many food cutting machines,is also attributed as a pioneer in 3-D printing.Urschel,like many companies,employs 3-D printing,Major explains.The company was also an early adopter of laser cutting and 5-axis machining.Other technologies incorporated in Urschel machinery production January/February

143、 202420The frozen potato industry is witnessing significant transformations,driven by advancements in technol ogy that are reshaping various facets of production,processing,and distribution.Al l these factors have resul ted in a paradigm shift,offering unprecedented opportunities and chal l enges.As

144、 technol ogy continues to redefine the frozen potato sector,understanding these advancements is crucial for stakehol ders seeking to navigate and capital ize on the rapidl y evol ving market dynamics.TECHNOLOGY IS MOVI NG FASTER THAN EVER By Bogdan Angheluta Frozen Potato TechnologyJanuary/February

145、202422incorporate robotics and cell manufacturing.Every process of every Urschel part is fine-tuned.As technology evolves and a need arises,Urschel implements changes to maintain the utmost quality in workmanship.Growing manufacturing and changing with the times,Urschel created the Innovation&Develo

146、pment Center(I&D)in 2022,an offsite development facility to enable the principle of rapid iteration.The facility enables Urschel to explore new ideas and designs at a much faster pace to lead to innovative cutting solutions and machinery.“Implementing innovative technology is also crucial in food pr

147、oduction to deliver benefits and fulfill the demands of the food processing industry.As food processors expand into processing-controlled environments,the potential for built-in smart technology in Urschel cutting machines has increased.The investigation of PLCs(programmable logic controller)and HMI

148、s(human machine interface)on Urschel machinery began a few years ago.Urschel engineers determined a strategy to enable this technology on Urschel cutting machinery to benefit customer lines.”As such,he continues,Urschel engineers explored and finalized a platform that was most suitable to accommodat

149、e the needs of food production environments.The development started shortly after.Offering a smart machine with improved controls offers Urschel customers many benefits.This strategic initiative allows Urschel to excel with ever-growing technology,due to many types of sensors(safety,temperature,dete

150、ction,etc.)being more efficient when utilized within a PLC system.This flexibility is also paired with many other machine benefits:the ability to quickly identify safety statuses to reduce downtime;VFD or Soft start faults displayed to reduce troubleshooting time;alarms to alert users if a guard has

151、 been removed or if an E-Stop has been pressed while the machine is running;amperage of the motors are displayed on screen to help determine proper feeding;continuous trending of the machines amperages;customizable maintenance timers;datalogging machine information;different language options;ability

152、 to use VNC viewer and watch or control the HMI screen remotely from a control center;and the ability to remotely start or stop the machine and pull all data from the PLC to a customers control center.ONGOI NG I NVESTMENTS I NTO EXPANSI ON AND I NFRASTRUCTURE Regarding growth in the frozen potato se

153、gment of the food processing industry,customers around the world rely on Urschel for cutting solutions,says Alan Major.Not only has Urschel expanded the global headquarters in the U.S.,but Urschel International has also constructed a new office in the Netherlands and moved into a larger facility in

154、Denmark.“Urschels significant ongoing investment in the global infrastructure of the company gives clients peace of mind knowing their local office is there for complete support in terms of maintenance and training for the long life of their cutting equipment.Urschel speaks the language of food proc

155、essing and the local language,so important details in customer expectations are met.Urschel is currently working with several customers around the world exploring new cut shapes.There is a blurring of lines between crisps/chips,frites,and fries continues as a trend.Exclusivity agreements involve pio

156、neering an array of hybrid potato consumer products,”he points out.“Customers are concerned about labor shortages,thin cutting precision,oil absorption rates,developing stand-out products that appeal to todays consumer,and how to increase capacity and yield.Urschel cutting machinery is designed to r

157、un continuously for uninterrupted production.Knives,components,and machinery are designed under one roof.This means Urschel quality parts are designed to fit and function to optimally work with each other.”Urschel supplies millions of knives globally to leading food processors and develop new knives

158、 to meet customer needs whenever necessary.Urschel also houses an expansive inventory of commonly supplied components and parts to ship on-demand as necessary.The company thrives on embracing innovation in lean,cell manufacturing combined with maintaining a costly,multi-million-dollar inventory of p

159、arts to deliver support and service to Urschel customers,Major adds.A RECORD YEAR Related to the past years general market volatility,supply chain issues,and workforce shortages,Urschels global business in 2023 far exceeded expectations,considering the economic climate globally and the effects of su

160、pply chain disruptions,military conflicts,and impact from inflation and currency devaluation,Urschel still had a record year,and the workforce remained strong,according to Alan Major.“Urschel is a capital-intensive company,so we typically lag in the effects of economic downturns as we primarily sell

161、 to the food industry.Previous economic declines have had little impact which leads the company to be cautiously optimistic in 2024.While inflation has impacted food processing sectors,including potato producers,on margins the frozen potato market continues to evolve.Some of those same conditions wi

162、ll drive consumers to increase consumption and processors to increase capacity to keep up with Impl ementing innovative technol ogy is al so crucial in food production to del iver benefits and ful fil l the demands of the food processing industry.As food processors expand into processing-control l e

163、d environments,the potential for buil t-in smart technol ogy in Urschel cutting machines has increased.Al an Major,chief sal es officer,Urschel”Photo:Urschelldemand.Consumers will evaluate cost comparison of grocery store products and still realize the value in purchasing such products as frozen Fre

164、nch fries.In comparison,the cost per pound/per serving will remain economical,which will lead to positive market growth in the potato sector.”Urschels recent growth opportunities have derived from listening to customers and addressing those needs in the marketplace.Lessons learned stem from recogniz

165、ing weaknesses and addressing them with proper business adjustments within our organization.Growth does not come without change,and Urschel business culture continues to grow to effectively meet the everchanging needs of the marketplace,Major goes on to explain.“Urschel recognizes that R&D is critic

166、al for continual growth,assisting Urschel customers everywhere,and maintaining dominance as the market leader.The U.S.expansion and new facilities in the Netherlands and Denmark speak to this continual growth along with the Innovation&Development Department,”he concludes.THE NEW YEAR LOOKS EXCI TI N

167、G FOR FAM STUMABO AI has many different perceptions and definitions,according to FAM STUMABO representatives.In the companys context,machine learning is a more appropriate term.Potato processing plants,whether its potato snacks,French fries or other processed potatoes are among the most sophisticate

168、d in the food industry with many of the large processors striving for lights-out processing with minimum operator intervention.All our latest launches have put a strong focus on cutting solutions that offer exactly that highly sought after efficiency and yield by emphasizing on cut quality,reliabili

169、ty,flexibility,user-friendliness,operator safety,hygienic design and the lowest TCO.Our solutions are designed for easy integration into both new and existing lines from all major equipment suppliers and are increasingly capable of upstream and downstream interaction,enabling lights-out production.I

170、ts exactly by our continuous focus on innovation and by co-creation,that we meet the industrys needs,representatives point out.Our machines are already self-managing in the sense that based on certain inputs,they can show specific output behaviors.The production of blades is also widely automated.Ro

171、bots and cameras monitor the full production cycle.Should an error be detected,the system will automatically stop the production flow.According to the company,FAM STUMABO has one goal in mind:to help potato processors cut potatoes to perfection.The manufacturers combined knowledge of both mechanical

172、 and hydrocutting allows it to offer its customers the exact innovations and revolutions they have been looking for.FAM MACHI NES FOR HI GH-QUALI TY FRENCH FRY CUTTI NG AND DI CI NG FAM Tridis 240P is a good example of how innovation allows the standards to be raised.This versatile dicer/French fry

173、cutter,running at the highest capacities,is a reliable production machine built to deliver top-quality products.The drum of 240 mm depth,available for flat and crinkle allows to cut large diameter and long potatoes to maximum length.The curved infeed chute allows potatoes to align parallel to the sl

174、icing knife to maximize length of French fries.The Set&Forget features allow cutting tools to be replaced and adjusted effortlessly.There is no need for specially trained operators.FAM Tridis 180P incorporates the benefits of the Tridis 240P but is tailored for medium-high volumes.The 180 mm wide dr

175、um,available for flat,crinkle and deep crinkle applications,is essential if long potatoes are to be cut full length.It also benefits from the Set&Forget features.FAM Dorphy is an entry-level dicer and French fry cutter,combining the cut quality of the high-capacity machines with ultimate flexibility

176、 keeping labour cost down while maximizing productivity.Quick feeding and increased production speed reduces preparation time from hours to minutes.The machine operates with very low maintenance costs,no lubrication required.This machine is available in 3 executions:in-line model,stand-alone model(l

177、ower infeed for batch feeding),and Eurobin model.MACHI NES FOR HI GH-QUALI TY SLI CI NG,SHREDDI NG AND GRATI NG OF POTATOES FAM Centris 400P is a versatile centrifugal slicer/shredder with a patented DualStage impeller wheel maximizing quality and capacity.The machine is powered by the innovative Su

178、reSet 16P cutting head,which will always stay adjusted.The high cut accuracy results in a higher yield and less scrap.The incorporated“Stone Defender”offers the best protection against the impact of foreign material,lowering the total cost of ownership.Our sol utions are designed for easy integratio

179、n into both new and existing l ines from al l major equipment suppl iers and are increasingl y capabl e of upstream and downstream interaction,enabl ing l ights-out production.FAM STUMABO”23Photo:FAM STUMABOJanuary/February 202424According to FAM STUMABO representatives,versatility is key.The FAM Ce

180、ntris grating heads increase your options with a variety of cut sizes and styles that offer extra cutting possibilities.You therefore reduce the number of machines you need in your production line.The grating heads will produce all types of size-reduction solutions,starting from whole fresh or cooke

181、d potatoes,or from pre-cut products(fries,dices,etc.).FAM Volantis is our latest V-belt slicer designed for the precision transverse slicing of a wide variety of elongated and oblong products such as potatoes.The machine produces a high-quality cut on flat and crinkle slices,at medium to high volume

182、s.The special infeed chute will bring the potato up to speed before entering the V-channel,preventing the potato from tumbling.The wide infeed channel will perfectly align the potatoes towards the slicing wheel.Programmed speed settings of the slicing wheel and the V belts allow the maximum cut qual

183、ity at the highest capacity.Regarding the companys expectations for 2024,both in terms of sales and relationship to frozen food manufacturers,representatives say the new year looks exciting for FAM STUMABO,with the launch of several new machines.At Fruit Logistica,we will be launching the Yuran Capc

184、itec.This heavy-duty,belt-fed dicer and strip-cutter is designed for cutting a wide variety of products at high capacities.The large product opening for cutting vegetable products and can be equipped with a feed roll or driven top belt for peppers and leafy-type green vegetables.At Anuga FoodTec,wel

185、l be launching two additional machines but more to follow later.Our machines offer great flexibility on a large variety of fruit and vegetable cutting solutions for frozen food manufacturers.We understand the flexibility needed in the very diverse vegetable processing industry and design machines to

186、 empower customers with the ability to make more products with one machine.The ability to quickly change the setup of cutting tools allows the customer to do many recipes in a very short period,without compromising on the cut quality,representatives add.OPTI MI ZATI ON CAN REDUCE WASTE AND ENERGY US

187、AGE Grote and Vanmark foresee major French fry processing activity globally,with many brands focusing on robust growth in China,according to Mike Barber,sales manager at Vanmark.“Helping processors optimize existing equipment to handle a new product or pivot to step up production of a particular ite

188、m are examples of a customer need we can help fulfill in 2024.Optimizing each piece of equipment through the use of technology will result in less waste and energy usage while allowing for better predictive maintenance.As data acquisition speeds up the process of analyzing the data collected and inc

189、orporating the findings,greater strides can be made to optimize the production line,”he says.“Better technology also improves food quality.One example would be the quick-freezing technology now used for some individual items and meals.”As an example of an emerging technology integration,Mike Barber

190、explains that the Grote Company uses 3D vision technology in its sandwich and frozen pizza production equipment.Grotes robotic solutions feature 3D vision systems,which allow them to view the entire form and shape of targets,significantly improving robot accuracy.A single HMI touchscreen controls th

191、e entire system.All components are food grade with sanitary design and rated for quick and thorough washdowns.Regarding products for the frozen potato market,Vanmark has introduced its compact hydrocutter,which makes it easy to get high-quality cuts and robust throughput in a compact three-piece sys

192、tem thats simple to install,operate,and move.The compact hydrocutter mounts on three interlocking sections for ease of installation and modularity.User-friendly changeouts and minimal moving parts simplify maintenance,according to Mike Barber.Vanmark India recently manufactured and shipped this hydr

193、ocutting system to a major food manufacturing customer.The customer produces frozen products like French fries,potato wedges and hashbrowns.Additionally,Vanmark machine parts are now available via Grotes facility based in the Netherlands.This allows for faster service and no tariffs for customers in

194、 Europe.Also,Grote Company and Vanmark have forged strong partnerships with OEMs to supply turnkey French fry lines in China,India,and Southeast Asia.USI NG AI ALGORI THMS TO I MPROVE THE ACCURACY OF OPTI CAL SORTERS“At Key Technology,both the evolution of existing technology and new innovations pro

195、vide continual opportunities to enhance the value of our product solutions,”says Marco Azzaretti,director of marketing at Key Technology.“By partnering with our customers to solve their production challenges,we establish objectives for future product development.We also invest our time and attention

196、 to monitor trends in technology development and identify those that hold the most promise for advancing our product performance.During Hel ping processors optimize existing equipment to handl e a new product or pivot to step up production of a particul ar item are exampl es of a customer need we ca

197、n hel p ful fil l in 2024.Mike Barber,sal es manager,Vanmark”Photo:VanmarkJanuary/February 202426development,we thoroughly validate and test to ensure all our concepts for brand-new and enhanced products are optimized.Regarding the application of AI technology,were currently using advanced AI algori

198、thms to improve the accuracy of our food optical sorters,recognizing and removing targeted product defects and all foreign materials from the product stream.AI helps reduce the chance that some good products might also be removed inadvertently.The result is increased line yield while protecting prod

199、uct quality,which enables food processors to pack more products and improve the profitability of their operations.”Key Technology is continually innovating,with major new product introductions including COMPASS optical sorters and Zephyr horizontal-motion conveyors in addition to recent enhancements

200、 to the companys Rotary Sizing and Grading Systems and its RemoteMD software.“COMPASS is the easiest to use optical sorter on the market it achieves consistently accurate foreign material and product defect removal while offering a compelling ROI.Ideal for the critical end-of-line product inspection

201、 process prior to packaging,COMPASS helps processors automate and improve quality management of their food products,while maximizing yield and increasing profitability,”Azzaretti explains.Zephyr is Keys next-generation horizontal-motion conveyor.Featuring a patented direct drive with a counterbalanc

202、e system,Zephyrs unique motion profile gently transports product with no segregation or stratification and at higher capacities than can be achieved with other horizontal-motion conveyors.Zephyr minimizes bounce,which reduces product damage,noise,and loss of seasoning and other coatings to preserve

203、product quality.Recent enhancements to Keys family of Rotary Sizing and Grading Systems,which includes the Precision Size Grader(PSG),Rotary Size Grader(RSG)and Sliver Sizer Remover(SSR),enables vegetable,potato and fruit processors and packers to mechanically size and grade product while removing s

204、mall pieces,debris,and other targeted material.Available with newly optimized rollers,Lubed for Life bearings and drive covers,Keys Rotary Sizing and Grading Systems improve product quality control,increase yield,maximize sanitation,and reduce maintenance,Marco Azzaretti points out.RemoteMD 2.0 is a

205、n enhanced remote support service for Keys optical sorting systems.With RemoteMD,Key service technicians can securely connect to a customers sorter for real-time remote monitoring as well as technical support.Now with 24/7 call center support and delivery of quarterly status reports,RemoteMD 2.0 hel

206、ps optimize equipment performance to protect food safety and ensure product quality while increasing machine uptime and reducing service costs.DEMAND WI LL CONTI NUE TO GROW I N 2024“At Key Technology,we anticipate demand for our product solutions will continue to grow in 2024 and that well have the

207、 opportunity to partner with even more frozen food manufactures in Europe and beyond because our product solutions effectively address the biggest challenges the market is currently facing,”says Marco Azzaretti.“For one thing,extreme weather has been causing large fluctuations in the quality of harv

208、ested crops so our optical sorters,mechanical graders,and vibratory conveyors-which help ensure consistent final product quality despite changes in incoming product quality-are more important now than ever.At the same time,labor is getting harder to find and retain automated technologies that are ea

209、sy to learn and operate allow customers to do more with less labor.In this environment,where food manufacturers must work harder and smarter to prepare their products for quality-conscious consumers,Key is the ideal partner.”THE I MPORTANCE OF PEF PROCESSI NG Pulsed Electric Field(PEF)is an emerging

210、 technology which offers significant processing benefits to potato processors.In addition to optimizing production and creating a higher standard of products,PEF equipment can also help processors manage productions most expensive resources,such as raw potatoes,oil,and water,explain Heat and Control

211、 representatives.Limited worldwide resources and unprecedented global turmoil call for a balanced approach to raw material,water,energy,and nutritional content.PEF technology helps achieve industry critical goals such as enhanced food quality,decreased water usage,reduced emissions,increased energy

212、efficiency,and the ability to utilize by-products from waste food.French fries,potato chips,formed potato products,and root vegetables all benefit from treatment with PEF equipment which facilitates improved cutting of potatoes,higher product quality,increased process yields and reduced operating co

213、sts.A complementary reduction in acrylamide can also not be overlooked and demand for the technology has expanded from French fry processing into potato chip and snack foods,Heat and Control representatives point out.Food processing innovation and trends in food science are driving factors We antici

214、pate demand for our product sol utions wil l continue to grow in 2024 and that we l l have the opportunity to partner with even more frozen food manufactures in Europe and beyond because our product sol utions effectivel y address the biggest chal l enges the market is currentl y facing.Marco Azzare

215、tti,director of marketing,Key Technol ogy”Photo:Key Technologybehind the development of sustainable food processing techniques like PEF and the global food industry pulsed electric field systems market is poised to grow by USD227.52m during 2020-2024.At a time when potato processors are still suffer

216、ing the flow on effects of the pandemic-recent military events now present yet another crisis for the industry and a shortage of sunflower oil is impacting the entire food industry.Its yet another challenge for potato processors who are already dealing with the rising costs of energy and raw ingredi

217、ents.There is simply no way to predict how long the shortage of sunflower oil will go on for.During this time,innovative processing techniques and equipment will be key to maintaining profitability.According to Heat and Control representatives,processing equipment which incorporates PEF technology c

218、an provide significant savings on oil and help you manage the expensive resource during this time.Application of PEF makes the cut surface of the potato smoother,which reduces oil pick up and means theres less oil content in the final product.Depending on the raw potato type and quality,up to a 7%re

219、duction in oil can be achieved.Less free starch present on the surface of the chip also contributes to less starch in the fryer which can typically cause oil to degrade faster.The PEF process makes the potato tissue softer and easier to cut.The result is a smoother surface on the cut chip and ensure

220、s a higher starch content is retained in the outer layers of the chip rather than free on the surface.This means the product absorbs less oil during cooking-which translates to a significant reduction in oil expenditure over time.E-FLO ELECTROPORATI ON SYSTEM Extensive research and development have

221、gone into Heat and Controls own PEF solution:the patent protected E-FLO Electroporation system,representatives explain.This innovative equipment sets the standard for French fry and potato chip production and is the only solution on the market capable of also delivering Acrylamide reduction.The E-FL

222、O was originally created as a solution to reduce acrylamide formation during frying-without making fundamental changes to the manufacturing process-and without compromising on taste or quality.But the technology went on to surprise and delight designers with a host of other,just as valuable processi

223、ng benefits.The advantages of this processing method have seen many food processors across various industries incorporate the technology into their processing lines and those who are not already using it,are looking into it.Through its utilization of PEF,the E-FLO system achieves higher yields and a

224、 shorter,cheaper production process.As the Sunflower oil crisis continues-every process must be scrutinized,analyzed,and optimized,and oil management could make or break the operation.Adopting a PEF system is an excellent way for a potato processor to manage the impact of the Sunflower oil shortage

225、now,and in the future.The E-FLO system achieves a 5%reduction in oil content which on 2000kg/hr.of potato chips translates to just under 3000L of oil,per day.This represents a huge saving for the operation.Using equipment such as the E-FLO System can provide very real cost savings for processors,at

226、a time when oil management is critical,and oil prices are skyrocketing.A turnkey supplier can help you adopt,or upgrade your existing equipment,and its a great solution for customers who might be struggling to find oil during this time,because of the shortages,representatives point out.Working with

227、an experienced food industry expert also helps you bring your best products to market if alternative recipes and ingredients are being considered.The shortage of Sunflower oil will mean many processors are forced to substitute with other,less desirable oils.The oil savings achieved by upgrading to a

228、 system such as the E-FLO are so significant that it could reduce the need to resort to switching or blending with other(potentially more expensive)oils.As interest in sustainable processing grows,a PEF system can also help the operation address key sustainability goals.A greater volume of productio

229、n is happening globally,despite the worlds challenges,and many processors are seeking to better manage and understand their impact.Theyre investing significantly in equipment which helps them reduce fuel costs,energy waste,air pollution and water consumption-and meet the rigorous pollution control r

230、egulations of the various world-wide agencies.In recent years,the potato processing industry has made good progress in key areas of environmental sustainability and corporate social responsibility.Key players are acknowledging their part in a shift towards greater sustainability;and the right equipm

231、ent will allow them to process more efficiently and be more profitable,while achieving their sustainability goals,Heat and Control representatives 27PEF technol ogy hel ps achieve industry critical goal s such as enhanced food qual ity,decreased water usage,reduced emissions,increased energy efficie

232、ncy,and the abil ity to util ize by-products from waste food.Heat and Control”Photo:Heat and ControlJanuary/February 202428Freezing technologies enable the production of a wide variety of convenient and innovative food products.From frozen meals and pre-cut vegetables to frozen desserts,consumers ha

233、ve access to a diverse range of convenient options.Innovations such as quick-freezing tunnels,blast freezers,and cryogenic freezing methods have revolutionized the way food is preserved,extending its shelf life while maintaining optimal taste and nutritional value.The assistance provided by freezing

234、 technology to food manufacturers is immense.It enables large-scale production and storage,allowing manufacturers to meet the demands of a growing population.By preserving food through freezing,manufacturers can ensure a stable supply of products regardless of seasonal variations.STARFROST I NTRODUC

235、ES COST COMPARI SON SERVI CE Starfrost,specialists in cooling equipment and solutions,now offer an energy comparison service to Freezing technol ogy is indispensabl e in the food industry due to its rol e in equipment devel opment,assistance to manufacturers,and the crucial importance of after-sal e

236、s services.It contributes significantl y to food preservation,safety,and economic efficiency,making it an integral part of the modern food production l andscape.As technol ogy continues to advance,the food industry wil l l ikel y see further innovations in freezing,enhancing its capabil ities and fu

237、rther sol idifying its importance in ensuring a sustainabl e and resil ient food suppl y.THE SI GNI FI CANCE OF FREEZI NG TECH IN MODERN FOOD MANUFACTURING By Bogdan Angheluta Freezi ng Technology January/February 202430assist frozen and chilled food manufacturers in managing the ongoing rise in gas

238、 costs.This tool helps food processors assess the shift from expensive cryogenic to more affordable mechanical freezing,typically yielding a one-to-two-year return on investment.As energy costs continue to soar,it is crucial for food manufacturers to make informed decisions about their freezing meth

239、ods.Starfrost is offering a comprehensive analysis of operating costs associated with mechanical and cryogenic freezing technologies,allowing processors to evaluate the financial implications of each option,available to newcomers entering the industry as well as established food processors contempla

240、ting an upgrade from their current cryogenic freezers.Our energy comparison service equips businesses with the essential insights needed to optimize their freezing and chilling processes and sheds light on real costs and payback returns.As a comparative example,the operating costs per kilo of finish

241、ed product for mechanical freezing are notably 85-90%lower than those incurred with nitrogen cryogenics,an astonishing reduction,said Samuel Welch,UK sales manager at Starfrost.Our mechanical freezing equipment doesnt just deliver high-performance and high efficiency but also guarantees the highest

242、quality results in the end product.We aim to share our expertise and emphasize a profitable freezing solution without compromising the food products quality or sacrificing system flexibility.”Starfrosts experts are able accurately compare the costs of mechanical and cryogenic freezing processes,cons

243、idering factors such as gas prices,long-term agreements,and market volatility.By leveraging this data,processors can gain valuable insights into the potential savings and return on investment associated with the different freezing technologies.To showcase the effectiveness of this service,Starfrost

244、recently collaborated with a prominent UK seafood processor.By investing in a mechanical spiral freezer and utilizing the energy comparison service,the food manufacturer achieved substantial annual cost savings of GBP624,071(based on 50 weeks of production,processing 1000kg per hour of seafood produ

245、cts).The return on investment for this customer will be achieved in just over one year when compared to the operating costs of their previously used cryogenic freezer.The capacity is the big advantage of the GC70:in a rel ativel y smal l space,we have managed to squeeze more capacity out of the free

246、zer by increasing the headroom,which is of considerabl e benefit to customers.Torbjrn Persson,director of Gl obal Sal es Support&Product Line Management for Frigoscandia Freezers,JBT”Our energy comparison service equips businesses with the essential insights needed to optimize their freezing and chi

247、l l ing processes and sheds l ight on real costs and payback returns.Samuel Wel ch,UK sal es manager,Starfrost”Photo:JBTNEW FEATURES FOR A BESTSELLER The newest member of JBTs freezer range,the Frigoscandia GYRoCOMPACT 70 Spiral Freezer(GC70),is now available with Sequential Defrost;an addition whic

248、h means producers can benefit from the GC70s capacity increase for up to two weeks of continuous running,according to company representatives.By incorporating this option into the GC70,producers can enjoy not only prolonged running time but also a 20%capacity upgrade without compromising the footpri

249、nt when compared to its predecessor.The new function means the GC70 can run longer continuous times without stopping and without any need to halt production for defrosting at regular intervals.A new iteration of the JBT Frigoscandia GYRoCOMPACT range of spiral freezers the industry standard for spir

250、al freezer technology across the globe the GC70 not only includes a 700mm wide belt,but also a range of key features which have been optimized to work better,smarter,and more powerfully than ever before.The addition of the Sequential Defrost option enables the GC70 to operate continuously for up to

251、two weeks without the need for frequent defrosting,ensuring uninterrupted production.“This is a specially tailored option designed to meet the running requirements of the GC70,”says Torbjrn Persson,JBTs director of Global Sales Support&Product Line Management for Frigoscandia Freezers.BOOSTI NG CAPA

252、CI TY&TURNAROUND TI ME Capacity is another key feature of the GC70.To overcome space restrictions in many facilities,JBT has increased the overall capacity of the GC70 by building up,maximizing the amount of freezer that can cover the same area of floorspace.The overall achievement is a capacity inc

253、rease of up to 20%.“The capacity is the big advantage of the GC70:in a relatively small space,we have managed to squeeze more capacity out of the freezer by increasing the headroom,which is of considerable benefit to customers,”Persson adds.Improved drying functions also play a key role in the updat

254、ed GC70.The improvements,which are focused on quicker and more efficient drying of the belt,save up to an hour compared with previous functions.This,says Persson,translates to a big saving on customers turnaround times.“In older models,you had to dry for a longer period:this new version is a lot qui

255、cker,which means you cut delays in restarting production,”he explains.More than this,JBT technicians also took a deep dive into all the food safety and hygienic aspects of the freezer design.The result has been an opening of all the profiles on the machine to make it simpler and more straightforward

256、 to clean.A final detail is the addition of JBTs OmniBlu platform.A performance optimization system,which gathers and analyses data,insights and airflow control provided by OmniBlu enhances freezer performance and efficiency.nBy Bogdan Angheluta I ntervi ew-Frozen Food i n GermanyJanuary/February 20

257、2432How did the frozen food industry in Germany perform in terms of market growth and revenue in the past year?The frozen food market in Germany continued to develop positively in 2023 despite weak consumer sentiment and high inflation rates.According to our half-year report,which we published in mi

258、d-September 2023,we can expect a volume growth of 3.5%to 4.044 million tons for 2023.For total sales in 2023,the dti is forecasting growth of 15.3%to EUR21.383bn.This is particularly pleasing as we were already able to announce record results for 2022:Germans consumed more frozen food in 2022 than e

259、ver before,as our 2022 dti sales statistics show!Despite the positive forecast,however,the market development in the frozen food sector must be viewed in a differentiated way.Frozen food is also suffering from poor consumer sentiment,increased price sensitivity among customers and the simple need to

260、 save money in many households;all of this is putting pressure on sales.According to GfK,frozen food sales in the food retail sector are growing strongly,with an increase of 12.8%,which is well above the overall average for food of 8.3%.By contrast,the sales volumes of frozen food manufacturers and

261、distributors specializing in the out-of-home market developed more dynamically due to the continued increase in demand from the foodservice industry.Catch-up effects from the pandemic period can still be observed here.Following the drastic declines in sales and turnover in the coronavirus years,the

262、out-of-home market for frozen products could therefore continue to recover in 2023.The dti forecast for the development of frozen food in the catering sales channels of the AHM for 2023 assumes growth of 7%.However,it is also evident in the foodservice industry that while sales are rising significan

263、tly due to inflation,in real terms sales are falling by double digits.This is not good news for the foodservice industry in Germany,which has also had to contend with the expiry of the reduced VAT rate on food in restaurants from the start of 2024.A clear picture of the development of the overall fr

264、ozen food market in 2023 will not be available until April 2024.The dti will then publish the data from the dti sales statistics 2023,which are based on its own industry survey of companies.Can you provide insights into the key trends that influenced the market in 2023?The food market is developing

265、dynamically:changing social values are reflected in our eating culture and determine how we deal with food.Greater awareness of sustainability is influencing purchasing and eating behavior and offers the food industry many opportunities for innovation.Young consumers are trendsetters and are driving

266、 developments towards more sustainable nutrition.In our fast-moving times,nothing works without convenience:frozen food can fulfill this need very well in a wide variety of forms-and in combination with freshness and naturalness.Many consumers are looking for healthy food options that are quick and

267、easy to prepare to cope with the hectic pace of everyday life and meet the demands of work and family life.In 2023,convenience was the most important trend for food.In the long term,sustainability will become a decisive future factor and defining trend,but this trend weakened in 2023,not least due t

268、o the sharp rise in food prices.Vegetarian and vegan diets are particularly popular among younger,female consumers.The frozen food ranges offer a wide variety of options:Traditional vegan recipes or alternative products for meat and fish to reduce the consumption of animal products form new product

269、areas.When it comes to meat,animal welfare is becoming a more important selection criterion,although high inflation is currently preventing many people from reaching for the higher-priced products.Following the end of the coronavirus pandemic,the foodservice industry is also experiencing a resurgenc

270、e:the diverse Germany is one of the dominant markets in the European frozen food industry,but as many other regions around the worl d,it has al so faced several chal l enges recentl y.To find out how these were tackl ed and more,I spoke to Dr.Sabine Eichner,managing director of the German Frozen Foo

271、d Institute(dti).“YOUNG CONSUMERS ARE TRENDSETTERS,DRIVING DEVELOPMENTS TOWARDS SUSTAINABLE NUTRITION”33demands of guests,the difficult economic conditions and the simultaneous shortage of staff and skilled workers require new gastronomic concepts and smart nutritional solutions.Here too,the mega tr

272、ends of sustainability and convenience are unmistakable.Healthy,sustainable convenience,economically viable and emotionally convincing concepts are a must for the foodservice industry today.Frozen food offers many excellent product ranges for this and supports the sector on its way to a successful,m

273、ore sustainable future!What were some notable challenges faced by the frozen food industry in Germany in the previous year,and how were they addressed?The increasing and worsening global political crises and challenging national and European political framework conditions pose challenges for the fro

274、zen food industry in Germany.As the represen-tative body for the frozen food industry in Germany,we therefore take a very critical view of the German governments current economic and food policy and call for a change of course.The raw materials situation remains tense,electricity prices in Germany a

275、re among the most expensive in Europe,bureaucracy and regulatory frenzy at national and European level are tying up valuable capacities,while at the same time there is an increasing shortage of skilled workers.Inflation and consumer restraint are weakening business.The foodservice industry is also u

276、nder enor-mous pressure.The dti has therefore publicly called on the German govern-ment on several occasions to create better political framework conditions that promote competitiveness and growth of the business location,rather than slowing it down.Above all,this means a secure energy supply,perman

277、ently affordable and competitive energy prices,further tax relief and a rapid reduction in unnecessary bureaucracy.The great innovative strength,motivation and creativity of our member companies gives us hope.The frozen food industry is not waiting for cumbersome politics,but is boldly moving forwar

278、d with a pioneering spirit,especially in many sustainability projects.After all,the frozen food industry has a lot to offer as a future-oriented category:We are helping to prevent food loss and are working towards the major goal of climate neutrality with innovative ideas and a great deal of commitm

279、ent.Increasing energy efficiency,conserving resources,and optimizing processes along the entire frozen food value chain are ultimately in the interests of all market participants.Our member companies benefit from the high level of expertise in our association network,the outstanding cohesion in the

280、frozen food family and the very lively internal exchange in our committees and working groups.We are very proud to be able to offer our members such an exclu-sive,valuable,and value-added network as a knowledge and communication platform and are constantly working on expanding our services and tailo

281、ring them to the needs of the companies.In terms of consumer preferences,how did the demand for specific types of frozen foods change in 2023?Dr.Sabine Eichner:In view of the mid-term review of frozen food presented by the dti in mid-September 2023,we assume that the trend towards more convenience i

282、n private households will continue to grow.In view of the high demands of work,family and everyday life,consumers benefit from food products that allow them to conjure up healthy meals that are quick and easy to prepare.Frozen products can fulfill this need very well in a wide variety of forms-and a

283、lso in combination with freshness and naturalness.The same applies to professional users in the catering industry:the diverse demands of guests,the difficult economic conditions and the simulta-neous shortage of staff and skilled wor-kers require new gastronomic concepts and smart nutritional soluti

284、ons.Here too,the mega trends of sustainability and convenience are unmistakable.Again,frozen food is the perfect problem solver:reliable costing,low food waste,high individual refinement potential,guaranteed success and taste,long shelf life,perfect portioning-and all this with uncomplicated use.Wer

285、e there any significant regulatory changes or industry developments that impacted the frozen food sector in Germany last year?The industry is currently busy implementing the requirements of the German Supply Chain Due Diligence Act.To this end,risk analyses and risk management systems must be set up

286、 to ensure compliance with human rights in supply chains.The dti actively supports its members with its expertise.The switch to renewable energies to achieve climate protection targets remains a major challenge for the industry.The use of non-fossil energy sources in mobility is also a focal point i

287、n the further develop-ment of the frozen food industry.Even if there is still a long way to go,there are many innovative approaches,which makes us optimistic that we will achieve our goals.Looking ahead to 2024,what are the expectations for market growth,and what factors are anticipated to drive or

288、hinder this growth?The trends mentioned can be seen in the long term and will continue.This will result in many opportunities for the frozen food industry,as frozen food offers numerous unbeatable advantages such as freshness,naturalness,convenience,and sustainability all in one.The incredibly wide

289、range of products in the frozen food department shows that frozen food companies have their ear very close to the consumer and know how to respond to changing eating habits and require-ments.This applies to the megatrend of plant-based nutrition,which is being driven primarily by the younger genera-

290、tion and is already very clearly reflected in the menus of many universities.These are the consumers of tomorrow,who will also shape the offerings in company canteens and restaurants in the future.It is important to help shape this develop-ment with creativity and innovation.There is great potential

291、 here for our future frozen food category if we can work together to communicate the benefits of frozen food even more effectively and present them at the POS-particularly in terms of sustainability,naturalness,and freshness.As an interest group and communication network,the German Frozen Food Insti

292、tute offers the ideal platform for all players in the frozen food industry who want to leverage these great opportunities for the future.If you are not yet a member,you are cordially invited to join our strong community!n15.3%is the estimated growth in total sal es registered by the frozen food indu

293、stry in 2023.#January/February 202434In todays competitive market,packaging is not just a necessity but al so serves as a means of differentiation,hel ping brands to stand out by offering sustainabl e packaging options.Effective packaging not onl y ensures the heal th and safety of consumers but al

294、so pl ays a vital rol e in buil ding trust and brand l oyal ty within the food industry.THE ROLE OF PACKAGI NG IN FOOD SAFETY By Bogdan Angheluta Process&Packagi ng T35Packaging,particularly when crafted from plastic,frequently draws criticism for its contribution to excessive waste volumes,carbon e

295、missions,and resource depletion,according to an expert article published recently by interpack.Here,experts explain how amidst these concerns,the packagings primary function-safeguarding products to ensure they reach consumers intact-is often overlooked.Yet,the process is indispensable for facilitat

296、ing the transportation,storage,and preservation of goods,guaranteeing their hygiene,quality,authenticity,and integrity.This role is particularly vital for food and pharmaceutical items,though numerous other products would similarly face wastage without adequate packaging.Consequently,ensuring produc

297、t safety remains a paramount objective in the packaging industry,a focal point underscored by exhibitors at last years interpack event.The fundamental objective of effective packaging solutions is to offer optimal protection for their contents.This is particularly evident and significant within the

298、food sector.Innovative and intelligent packaging solutions are instrumental in curbing food wastage.At the previous years interpack exhibition,attendees gained insights into methods to minimize food loss during filling processes,achieve reliable product inspection and high-quality sealing,and preven

299、t unwanted contamination.An often-overlooked aspect in packaging discussions is that only a small fraction of a products environmental impact can be attributed to packaging,particularly concerning food items.For instance,butter packaging accounts for merely 0.4%of the overall carbon footprint of the

300、 product,while a milk carton contributes approximately 4%.These statistics,derived from a study by the German packaging and environmental association AGVU,encompass the entire lifecycle of the packaging,including disposal.The lions share of the environmental impact is therefore associated with the p

301、ackaged product itself.Approximately one-third of food produced globally is lost or wasted within the value chain annually.However,initiatives like the Save Food Initiative,initiated in 2011 by interpack and Messe Dsseldorf,are actively addressing this issue.Packaging plays a pivotal role in the eve

302、nts organized by these companies to combat food wastage.ADDRESSI NG I SSUES RELATED TO MATERI ALS Food packaging continues to rely on multilayer plastic composites due to their versatility in adapting to the specific protection requirements of various products,the interpack experts point out.However

303、,the challenge lies in the fact that currently,multilayer packaging is not recyclable,resulting in its disposal in landfills or incineration.Addressing this issue,the Circular FoodPack research project,slated until 2024,involves scientists at the Fraunhofer Institute for Process Engineering and Pack

304、aging(IVV)striving to establish a closed-loop recycling system for food packaging,enabling its safe reuse in direct contact with food.Their focus is on developing innovative monomaterial packaging that matches multilayer composites in protective capabilities while facilitating closed-loop recycling

305、and reuse.Meeting stringent regulatory standards is paramount for incorporating recycled materials into food packaging.EU Regulation 2022/1616 mandates functional barriers with well-documented properties.In response,Fraunhofer IVV has devised a screening method to assess functional barrier layers ai

306、med at preventing undesirable substance migration into food.This approach involves evaluating thin organic and inorganic coatings used as barrier layers,followed by practical testing later in the project.According to interpack,while paper is not always the primary choice for food packaging,especiall

307、y for items with fatty or liquid contents due to the inherent limitations of fiber-based materials,theres a growing shift away from plastic towards paper packaging.In instances where packaging encounters fatty or liquid products,effective barrier protection becomes imperative.BASF addresses this nee

308、d with Ecovio,a certified compostable plastic derived from renewable resources.Introducing a new line of extrusion-coated paper and cardboard packaging to its Ecovio range,BASF offers a solution approved for food contact,boasting robust barrier properties against liquids,fats,oils(including mineral

309、oils),and excellent thermostability to withstand boiling water up to 100C.Furthermore,Ecovio adheres well to various paper and cardboard surfaces,making it suitable for a wide array of paper-based applications,including dairy product cups,frozen food containers,sandwich wrapping paper,cereal bar pac

310、kaging,confectionery,and snack bowls,as well as hot and cold drink or soup to-go cups.Emphasizing its commercial viability,the manufacturer asserts that the new extrusion-coating process achieves speeds comparable to those of polyethylene(PE),with the ability to deliver similar coating weights,enabl

311、ing the production of very thin coatings depending on the application and equipment used.THE I MPORTANCE OF I NSPECTI ON Lastly,experts at interpack underscore the significance of inspection solutions in ensuring the protective efficacy of product packaging.Various systems available in the market ar

312、e adept at detecting different types of foreign matter.For metallic contaminants,industrial metal detectors prove effective in reliably identifying metallic foreign bodies and removing them from production lines,thereby assisting manufacturers in upholding compliance,minimizing recall risks,and redu

313、cing production downtime.In cases where detection of other foreign matter is necessary,X-ray inspection systems are recommended.This year,Mettler-Toledo unveiled a new X-ray solution designed to inspect individually packaged foods or pharmaceuticals at high speeds along production lines.Furthermore,

314、the process of scrutinizing labels,printed materials,and expiration dates contributes to product protection.Visual product inspection systems deliver precise results in this regard.For instance,Minebea Intecs VisioPointer features three cameras and multiple lighting modes as standard,with optional s

315、ide and satellite cameras available for analyzing products from various angles.Additionally,it performs reliable seal seam inspections,a crucial visual quality check in the food industry,as the product can only attain its shelf life if its packaging is completely airtight.All these issues and more w

316、ill be further explored at the next interpack,which will be held on May 7-13,2026,in Dsseldorf.A FOCUS ON THE I TALI AN PACKAGI NG I NDUSTRY According to preliminary data from the MECS-Ucima Research Centre,the Italian packaging technology industry achieved a remarkable milestone in 2023 January/Feb

317、ruary 202436by surpassing the EUR9bn mark for the first time.The total sales reached EUR9.05bn,reflecting a 6%increase compared to 2022.These figures,if confirmed in the final report,would mark the third consecutive year of record-breaking sales following the achievements in 2021 and 2022.Exports ar

318、e the primary driver of growth in sales for Italian packaging machinery manufacturers,contributing 81.3%of total revenues.They are projected to reach EUR7.36bn by the end of the year,reflecting a 12%surge compared to 2022.This upward trend in exports encompasses nearly all regions,with notable incre

319、ases observed in North America(25%),the European Union(17%),Asia(22%),and South America(31%)based on data from January to August.On the other hand,domestic sales experienced a decline of 14%compared to 2022,totaling EUR1.68bn.Despite this,the industry remains optimistic about the future,boasting a r

320、ecord of secured orders for 2024 worth 8.2 months.However,caution is advised amidst evolving geopolitical landscapes,and uncertainties persist regarding forthcoming EU directives on packaging usage.Nonetheless,recent developments suggest that these directives may accommodate the diverse characterist

321、ics and technologies of member states,potentially safeguarding Italys exemplary waste management model,as stated by Ucima.In 2023,the issue of component delays has finally been resolved,allowing companies in our sector to focus exclusively on securing and fulfilling orders and in turn enabling them

322、to achieve this new record,stated Ucima Chairman Riccardo Cavanna.However,especially in recent months,orders have been falling compared to 2022 and this trend is expected to continue in 2024.The 14%decline in domestic sales is also a cause for concern,demonstrating that the Italian market has been i

323、mpacted by both the inflationary crisis and uncertainties surrounding Industry 4.0.Our industry and its client sectors require clarity,as well as a new plan that supports both supply and demand.In this regard,the RePowerEU initiatives allocation of EUR6.3bn for the Industry 5.0 plan is a positive de

324、velopment,although we would like to know more about how the funds will be distributed and under which criteria.To date,we have heard nothing about incentives for capital goods to facilitate the ecological transition,and we are awaiting a response from the government.According to the export figures,t

325、he Italian packaging industry has maintained its world leadership position.Italian-made technologies and solutions continue to attract sustained demand from food,beverage,pharmaceutical,tissue and cosmetics companies all over the world,who appreciate the quality,reliability and innovation that we ar

326、e able to deliver,noted Cavanna.As for innovation,some of our companies have already integrated artificial intelligence solutions into their machines.This is one of the biggest challenges we will face in the coming years,and Ucima is ready to support companies in identifying the best opportunities f

327、or their development and international expansion.The European Parliaments latest vote on the packaging directive is a step in the right direction.Common sense has prevailed,Cavanna added in the statement.However,we are waiting to see what the next steps will be,as the process is not yet complete.Uci

328、ma has always been at the forefront in defending the Italian way,a model that has established us as a leader in terms of waste recycling.We will continue to work in collaboration with the other associations in the supply chain to defend a system that delivers both environmental and economic advantag

329、es.I NNOVATI VE VERTI CAL PACKAGI NG SOLUTI ONS FROM SYNTEGON Companies active in packaging keep bringing forward solutions that aim to increase output and reduce costs.Such an example comes from Syntegon.The SVX Duplex is part of the vertical SVX series launched by the company during Interpack 2023

330、.It is the go-to machine for high-speed vertical packaging with an output of up to 600 bags per minute.The core innovation of all SVX variants is a cross-seal drive consisting of four independently controlled servo motors.The optimized solution,which currently has pending patents,gives manufacturers

331、 full control over the vertical and horizontal movement,ensuring reliable seals.Thanks to a combination of four motors and low inertia,the drive contributes to achieving the highest outputs.“Customers are always looking for solutions that can produce reliably tight cross seals for added product safe

332、ty.The SVX makes sure this is the case without compromising on speed.Depending on the bag parameters as well as the dosing of the product,the SVX Duplex has an output of up to 600 bags per minute with two film lanes,”company representative explained in a statement.In terms of design and overall aest

333、hetics,the SVX series also stands out:a front cylinder with curved sliding doors redefines machine manipulation and ease of access.Upon opening,the doors relocate to the back part of the cylinder,making sure they do not obstruct operators during the daily work.And with a machine width of only 1,220 mm the SVX Duplex can easily be integrated into new and existing packaging lines.When it comes to op